Kailh Box Navy vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky feel, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are an ideal choice. These switches not only provide a nostalgic feel reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, but their sound signature and tactility are also invigorating and crunchy. On the other hand, if your priority is a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver switches are perfect for you. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, these linear switches offer quick and effortless actuation. Their pristine sound profile and polished feel add to their appeal. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
90g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Navy and the TTC Speed Silver both use polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material results in a similar sound profile for both switches - a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound output. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using these switches.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Box Navy and the Speed Silver utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound overall. As a result, both switches will exhibit these qualities when bottoming out. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing brings consistency in sound output between the two switches.
With different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Box Navy or the Speed Silver, the user will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing. This includes the bottom-out sound and the tactile feedback experienced during typing. On the other hand, the top housing material will greatly influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the materials used are similar, the specific placement of these materials within the switch impacts the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is apparent that there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Box Navy switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams, requiring a stronger push to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a lighter touch to initiate a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Navy switch requires a substantial 90 grams of force to fully press down, providing a more robust typing experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver switch has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a slightly lighter and gentler typing feel. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged use or gaming sessions may lean towards the Speed Silver switch, while individuals seeking a more forceful and substantial typing experience may opt for the Box Navy switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have different travel distances. The Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both of these travel distances are shorter than the most traditional distance of 4.0 mm. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Speed Silver switch with its slightly shorter travel distance may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, some people find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In this case, the Box Navy switch with its longer travel distance would be a more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
The Kailh Box Navy comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offers a resonant and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. Typing on these switches can be compared to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a more neutral sound profile. It falls into the moderate range in terms of actuation force requirement and sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or using it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp and invigorating tactile experience with a prominent and distinct tactile bump. Its feedback intensity is high, providing a snappy and reactive feel while typing. Additionally, these switches are on the heavier side, requiring more force to actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch provides a milder typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls into the gentle range, offering a more approachable feel for most users. These switches are also said to have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, if you are seeking a heavy and tactile typing experience with a distinctive sound, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch would be the suitable choice. It provides a vintage feel reminiscent of buckling keyboards from the 80s. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in typing, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the better option. It offers a lighter actuation force and a precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and enjoy the sound and tactility of clicky switches, then the Kailh Box Navy switches are the perfect fit for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches provide a satisfyingly hefty feel reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. The sound profile of the Box Navy is resonant and crunchy, offering a high-pitched and immersive auditory experience. In terms of feel, the Box Navy provides a sharp and invigorating typing sensation with its strong and crisp tactile bump. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switches are the way to go. With a light-medium bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. The sound profile of the Speed Silver is neutral, making it suitable for a variety of settings and purposes. In terms of feel, the Speed Silver offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between Kailh Box Navy clicky switches and TTC Speed Silver linear switches depends on your preferences for typing feel and sound signature.
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